Read More

And he said: “It does currently look like a bombsite, but I’m pleased to say everything is on course. The lads are working themselves into the ground, with a lot of work having already been done in the cellar and in replacing the toilets.

“The last job will be the painting of the exterior. It was looking a bit tired and not very inviting – before we closed for the refurbishment I heard a customer say ‘What a lovely pub, but you wouldn’t think so from the outside’.”

Dave has previously explained that there will be no structural alterations to the Punch Taverns pub – just “a much needed overhaul”.

Inside the Lion Pub on Tithebarn Dtreet (Image: Colin Lane)

As well as the outside of the pub being painted, there will be new carpets, furniture, upholstery and wallpaper, while both the men’s and women’s toilets are being totally refurbished and the bar area revarnished.

Read More

The pub, which stands opposite the old Exchange Station, is grade II listed and one of its lounges includes a delightful stained-glass dome.

Dave, who had previously worked behind the bar, rode to the rescue of the historic pub, reopening it in November. It had been closed for five months following a dispute between its former landlords and Punch Taverns over rent.